Set to be the most expensive television show ever, production for the Amazon series, inspired by stories preceding JRR Tolkien's The Fellowship of the Ring, will be headquartered in West Auckland for five years.
While members of the production crew have been in New Zealand for more than a year, official production starts next month, it was confirmed today.
Actors Equity director Denise Roche told Tim Dower the $1.5 billion production is eligible for a hefty tax rebate from the government.
She says there needs to be some discussion about staffing quotas to make sure locals are benefiting.
"Kiwis still have a shot if they keep auditioning and there's a great local talent pool to choose from.
"The casting list is only for the first two episodes, so local actors shouldn't give up."
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